amon g. carter jr. downtown ymca 512 lamar street, fort ... · mission statement: to put christian...
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AMON G. CARTER JR. DOWNTOWN YMCA 512 Lamar Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102 817-332-3281 | www.ymcafw.org/downtown
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BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS Camp is all about belonging
Dear Summer Camp Parents,
On behalf of the Summer Camp Staff, I would like to thank you for allowing the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth to be part of your child’s summer. Our goal is to provide a quality camp experience to the families in our community. We strive to ensure that you and your child will have a positive experience this summer and build long lasting relationships.
The key to our success is our well-trained and caring staff who love to work with children. Strong communication between the staff and parents/guardians is essential.
Please take a few moments to read through this guide with your child. It will help familiarize you and your child with our policies and procedures as well as explain details about payments, field trips, and more.
We realize you have a choice when it comes to you and your family’s recreational and camping needs and we thank you for choosing the YMCA. We are looking forward to a great camping season.
Sincerely,
Mechell Green
Program Director
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Mission Statement & Objectives page 4
Registration & Admission page 5
Payment Information/Late Fees page 6
Camp Operating Days & Hours page 7
Check In/Out Procedure page 8
Illness Criteria & Immunization page 9
Accident/Emergency Procedure page 10
Licensing & Policies page 11
Staff Training & Qualifications page 12
Communication page 13
What to Bring to Camp page 14/15
Field Trips page 16
Swim Test & Weather page 17
Day Camp Code of Conduct page 18
Adult Code of Conduct page 19
Frequently Asked Questions page 20/21
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Mission Statement:
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
Goals & Objectives:
Our cause is for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Our camp programs, as part of the YMCA, reflect these values and are designed to help our campers grow physically, mentally, and spiritually within a fun camp environment. Well-trained camp staff act as a catalyst for the development in your child as they lead the campers in challenging activities.
All YMCA camps are designed to meet the following goals that are established for these three causes. Each camper will:
Grow personally
Learn values
Improve personal and family relationships
Appreciate diversity
Become better leaders and supporters
Develop specific skills and assets
Have fun
Character Development
At the YMCA, character development and values are a part of who we are. At our YMCA that means more than just activities. We believe character development is an important challenge for all of us – staff, volunteers, members, participants and parents – to accept and demonstrate the positive values of caring, respect, honesty and responsibility.
40 DEVELOPMENTAL ASSETS
The YMCA also adopts the practices of the Search Institute’s 40 Developmental Assets that help young people make wise decisions, choose positives paths, and grow up competent, caring, and responsible. The assets are grouped into eight categories:
1. Support
2. Empowerment
3. Boundaries and Expectations
4. Constructive Use of Time
5. Commitment to Learning
6. Positive Values
7. Social Competencies
8. Positive Identity
MISSION & OBJECTIVES
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Registration & Admission
Pre-registration is strongly recommended. As we have a limited number of spaces, enrollment is taken on a first come, first serve basis. We are unable to accept phone or faxed registrations. No child will be refused admittance to the program due to race, religion, or gender. There is a 24 hour process for registration. Same day registration and attendance is not allowed.
If your child has special needs, please contact the Camp Director to discuss prior to registration.
Deposits
In order to reserve your child’s space in the weeks he/she would like to attend, a $20 deposit is required. Deposits are non-refundable.
Scholarships
The YMCA offers financial assistance to those who qualify. Applications must be completed and turned in 7 business days before camp starts.
Transfer Policy
Camper transfers from one week session to another will only be made if space is available. Transfer requests must be made in writing. Forms can be obtain on our website or at the YMCA.
Waiting Lists
In the event that a camp fills prior to your registration, you may place your child on our waiting list. You will be contacted if a spot becomes available 3-5 days prior to the session start date.
Age Exceptions
Campers must be the age indicated in the camp brochure by camper’s start date. Due to our licensing requirements there will be no age exceptions. Camps are designed with curriculum and programming for campers of a certain age.
Pro-rating Camps
We believe that a true camp experience is a week-long experience (3 days or more). For this reason, we do not pro-rate camps.
Absences
Please contact your YMCA staff at 817-332-3281 if your child will be absent. Parents who pay in full before the week begins, but do not attend camp on Monday and fail to notify the YMCA of an absence, may be cancelled for that week.
*Camp weeks will not be prorated based on attendance. If your child does not attend a week of camp, you may be credited for another week.
REGISTRATION
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Day Camp Fees & Payment
Day Camp Fees
• $55 Registration/Supply Fee per child (non-refundable)
• $140 YMCA Family Member weekly fee
• $170 Non-YMCA Family Member weekly fee
Teen Camp:
• $110 YMCA Family Member weekly rate
• $120 Non-YMCA Family Member weekly rate
Field Trip Fees
Field trip fees are included however, if your child uses a season pass for Hawaiian Falls, parents will need to pay for their meal ticket ($9.00) prior to the field trip.
Payments & Late Fees
Payments are due in full on the Friday before the upcoming week.
Payments will be considered late on Monday at noon and will be assessed a $25 late fee. Please notethat if payment is not made by Monday, your spot in camp will be forfeited and you must re-register.
Payment can be made by auto-draft, credit card, check, money order, or cash.
A fee of $25 will be assessed for all returned checks. In the event of a returned check, all futurepayments must be made by money order, cash or credit card.
Payments will not be pro-rated due to absences, holidays, or inclement weather.
Refund Policy
All withdrawals from a camp session and/or refund requests must be done in writing through the YMCA.
Refunds/credits will be issued as follows:
A full refund (less the deposit) will be issued if a written cancellation is received at least 2 weeksprior to the start of the camp session.
If you paid by check/cash or your camp payments were made through EFT draft from a checking or savings account, it takes 4-6 weeks from the date requested to receive a refund in the mail. If you paid by credit card or your camp payments were made through EFT draft from a credit card account, it takes 1-2 weeks from the date requested to receive a refund on your credit card statement.
Expulsion Policy
The YMCA reserves the right to end your child’s enrollment with or without refund if the staff deems in the best interest and/or safety of the camper, other campers, parents or staff. If a child’s enrollment termination is deemed necessary by staff, parents will be informed of reasons for termination.
PAYMENTS & LATE FEES
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Camp Operating Days & Hours
Camp Hours - Camp opens Monday, June 3, 2019 and closes Thursday, August 15, 2019.
- Staff Development Day - Camp will be closed Friday, August 16 for staff development.
Pre-Camp Hours: 7:00am-8:30am
Camp Hours: 8:30am-4:00pm
Post-Camp Hours: 4:00am-6:00pm
All campers must be checked in before 8:30am unless prior notice is given. Campers may be picked up between 4:00pm-6:00pm.
Location - Our camp is located at the:
Amon G. Carter, Jr. Downtown YMCA, 512 Lamar Street, Fort Worth, Texas, 76102
A Typical Day at Camp
Each camp is unique but follows similar schedules. Swim times may vary depending on what camp your
child is attending. The following is a sample schedule:
7-8:45am: AM Pre Camp /Extended Care (board games, playground, balls, jump rope, etc.)
8:45-9:15am: Opening Rally (songs, skits and contests/challenges)
9:15-3:30pm: Camp Activities (attendance, field trips, group games, arts & crafts, water breaks,lunch, fun activities, camp songs, clean up)
3:30-4:00pm: Snack/Pickup
4:00-6:30pm: PM Post Camp/Extended Care (board games, group games, reading/storytelling, etc.)
Campers participate in a variety of activities each day that have been designed to fit the theme & include:
OPERATING HOURS
Ice Breakers Arts & Crafts Sports Games & Fitness for Kids Hands on Science
The activities can be camp wide activities, personally selected activities, and unit activities. Each camp will offer a different set of activity choices designed to optimize the child’s camp experience. The Specialty camps and Sports camps will have a half-day specialty/sport format and a half-day traditional camp format. Trip & Outdoor camps will offer activities depending on the location of the trip.
Children in the extended hours (pre and post camp) will be given a variety of structured and non-structured activities to choose from each day. Activities may include: Science, Nature, Puzzles & Games, Arts & Crafts, Hiking, Sports, Group Games, and Special Events.
Playgrounds
When operating at school campuses or other non-YMCA owned and operated facilities, we do not maintain playgrounds and they may or may not meet the requirements of State Licensing. Our staff monitor and check the safety of grounds and equipment daily. We work closely with school and building administrators to ensure playgrounds meet all requirements of the YMCA as well as any standards of the organizations or schools that own and maintain them.
Songs, Music & Drama Character Development Transitional Activities Special Events Swimming
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Check In
The YMCA requires that all children are to be properly signed in by an adult and turned over to a YMCA staff person. This helps ensure the safety of your child. The YMCA does not and will not assume responsibility for children that arrive before the start time at any location.
Check Out
Sign your child out when you pick them up from camp. Please bring a photo ID with you every day. Children will be released only to those authorized by the parent on the child's Registration Form. It is the parent's responsibility to notify the camp of any changes in authorization. If someone other than the authorized individuals must pick-up your child, a written note must be sent in ahead of time. Those picking up children should be prepared to show identification to the camp staff member upon request. No child will be released to anyone who is not authorized to pick up that child.
Late Check In
When dropping off your child after pre-camp hours, please take your child to the front desk and check him/her in. Depending on the location of your child’s group, staff will either ask you to bring your child to their group or escort your child to their group.
Early Check Out
When picking up your child during camp hours (before 4:00pm), please sign your child out at the front desk. Depending on the location of your child’s group, staff will either ask you to pick up your child at a given location or escort your child to the front desk.
Late Pick-Up
We close promptly at 6:00pm. For all children not picked up by the end of the program, regular or extended hours, the following late policy will be in effect:
First 5 minutes: Grace Period
Each 5 minutes thereafter: $10.00 per child
After your third late fee please note that you may be asked to withdraw your child from camp. Payment should be made at the YMCA.
If you are running late, please notify the camp and attempt to make alternate pick-up arrangements.
NOTE: When a child is not picked up in emergency situations including, but not limited to: inclement weather or natural disasters, we will follow the above “late pick-up” policy starting 45 minutes from when the parent has been informed of the need for campers to be picked-up.
Parking
Please remember to drive slowly and carefully. During early morning/afternoon pickup, please note parking is limited, so please plan accordingly.
CHECK IN/CHECK OUT
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Illness and Exclusion Criteria
All immunizations must be current. Children must be healthy enough to participate in the program’s daily routine. We do not have the facilities to care for sick children and therefore do not allow them to attend the program. For the safety and comfort of your child, please keep them home until they feel better and no longer present the danger of passing on their illness.
If you are keeping your child home due to illness, please contact the camp by 9:30am and let the staff know of your child's absence. When your child has a fever (fever of 101) or vomiting/diarrhea, please make sure they remain at home 24 hours after their temperature and symptoms returns to normal. We may require a physician’s release for any medical or health condition. If your child becomes ill while at the center, you will be asked to pick up your child as soon as possible.
Exclusion from camp may include, but not limited to the following illness/communicable health problems:
Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
A chronic runny nose with colored discharge
A chronic cough
A fever
Vomiting or upset stomach
Signs of general fatigue or discomfort
An open rash
Head lice
Knowledge that the child has had a fever within the past 24 hours
Please notify the YMCA if your child or any member of your immediate household develops a communicable condition (as defined by the local health department), such as pink eye, chicken pox or lice. Parents are responsible to notify the YMCA within 24 hours or the next business day. In the case of a life-threatening illness, please notify the YMCA immediately. It is important for us to post a notice to other parents as soon as possible.
In the case that your child becomes ill during the program, you will be contacted as soon as possible. If the parent or guardian is unable to be reached, the child’s emergency contact will be notified. It is the responsibility of the parents to arrange for the child to be picked up from the center as soon as possible.
Immunization, Hearing and Vision Requirements
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services requires all childcare facilities to have on file proof of each child’s immunization on file at the YMCA meets this requirement. The immunizations needed are listed below: • Hepatitis B • Measles • Hepatitis A • Pnenumiciccak (conjugate vaccine)• DTp/DTaP/DT • Mumps • TB Screening • Polio IPV or OPV• Hib • Rubella • Rotavirus• Polio • Varicella • Influenza
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth does not require staff vaccination/immunization; however we
require all staff to be Tuberculosis screened prior to working with youth in our child care programs.
ILLNESS & IMMUNIZATION
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Accidents/Emergencies
All precautions will be taken to prevent serious health risks to all campers. In the event that a minor injury occurs, First Aid will be administered at the camp location by the camp staff. The following procedures will be followed:
First Aid will be provided and the incident recorded in the camp log.
The child will periodically be observed after First Aid has been applied.
In the event of a medical emergency, immediate action will be taken by the staff as per your orders on the camp registration form and policies and waivers. Please be sure to keep these forms updated at all times. If parents or other responsible adults are unable to be reached, the child will be taken to the nearest hospital for any necessary treatment.
In general, in the event that a major injury or health problem arises and professional medical care is required, the following steps will be taken: (may not be in this order)
Immediate First Aid will be administered by the camp staff person until professional services arrive.
You will be contacted. If you cannot be reached, the emergency contact person will be notified.
911 will be called.
A staff person will accompany your child to the hospital and remain until you or your emergencycontact person arrives.
The incident will be described in writing on the YMCA incident report.
Emergency information is very important for us to provide the safest possible environment for your children.
*** Please notify us right away when there is a new work or home phone number, or if you have moved and have a new address. If your child is sick or injured, it is important for us to be able to contact you right away. Please keep these accurate at all times.
The YMCA does not incur the cost of medical treatment and it is imperative that you indicate on your child’s health history / registration form what type of health insurance you carry.
Children at Risk
Parents who arrive at the YMCA in an incapacitated condition (i.e. alcohol, drugs) present a risk to their child. The staff in charge will advise the parent of their options regarding the transportation of their child to his/her home.
Some options that may be exercised are:
Call the other parent
Call another person on the child’s emergency contact list
Call a taxi
Call a nearby neighbor / friend
If a reasonable conclusion cannot be reached, the parent will be advised that either Child Protective Services or the Police will be called.
ACCIDENT/EMERGENCY
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Licensing & Policies
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth abides by all standards regulating youth camps as prescribed by the Texas Department of Health Service “Youth Camp Act.” The Texas Department of State Health Services, General Sanitation division is located at:
1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756-3199, (512)834-6707
www.dshs.state.tx.us/youth_camp
In order to obtain a full compliance with these standards, parents must complete each enrollment form in its entirety and as necessary update the information throughout the summer. It is your responsibility to keep your child’s records up to date. Failure to keep records current could result in monetary penalties.
Policies
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth has written policies in place regarding the following: Health and Safety, Transportation, Facilities and Grounds, and Emergency Procedures. If you would like to view these policies, please see your Day Camp Director.
Child Abuse & Neglect
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth takes allegations of abuse and neglect very seriously. The Westside YMCA Day Camp staff is trained each year on Child Abuse, Sexual Abuse, and Neglect Prevention. The YMCA reports all suspected child abuse, sexual abuse and neglect. Reports are made to local law enforcement, Child Protective Services, or The Department of State and Health Services Abuse Exploitation division.
Abuse hotline: 1-800-252-5400 or www.txabusehotline.org
Babysitting Policy
YMCA employees are not allowed to babysit or transport your child anytime outside of the program. Violation of this policy is grounds for the employee’s immediate dismissal.
Gang Free Zone
Our YMCA Day Camp is a gang free zone. What is a Gang Free Zone? A gang-free zone is a designated area around a specific location where prohibited gang related activity is subject to increased penalty under Texas law. The specific locations include day camp centers. The gang-free zone is within 1000 feet of your child care center. For more information about what constitutes a gang-free zone, please consult sections 71.028 and 71.029 of the Texas Penal Code.
LICENSING & POLICIES
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Staff Training & Qualifications
All camp staff are required to attend 30- 40 hours of training prior to the first day of Summer Camp.
Our comprehensive training and development program includes behavior management, conflict resolution, planning age-appropriate activities, and risk management. In addition to learning all the policies and procedures of the YMCA Summer Camp program, they learn how important it is to apply sunscreen throughout the day, how to do head counts, how to check children in and out, and how the drop-off and pick-up operates. They explore techniques of how to better interact with children, build other’s self-esteem and confidence, and become experts in songs, games, skits, and arts & crafts projects.
At the end of our training, they are ready to use their new skills and knowledge with campers.
Camper Ratios
We operate with the maximum ratio of 1:10 staff to child ratio.
Special Needs
The YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth is committed to living out our value of inclusiveness which guarantees nondiscrimination and equal access for all in our programs, services, and activities. We strive to provide the best day camp experience for your child, and ask that prior to registration, you consult with the camp director regarding any special needs of your child. We will work to provide reasonable accommodations upon request. In addition, please complete an Inclusion Form.
Inclusion information for children with special needs must be provided at the time of registration & directly to the child’s Camp Director on the first day of each camp.
Medical Treatment
Due to the fact that there are some medical treatments and procedures that legally the YMCA staff is not trained, nor qualified to perform, children will be enrolled on an individual basis. We will make every attempt to serve all children.
Bathroom Procedures
No camper is ever alone and no camper is ever alone with a staff member. All campers will take trips to the bathroom with the entire camp and / or groups of campers escorted by camp staff. Campers will only use bathrooms inspected for safety by camp staff.
STAFF TRAINING
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Communicating with the YMCA Camp Staff
Exchange of information between parents and staff provides insights for both parties. The format may be formal or informal. It is vital that you inform us of changes happening in your family. Changes at home include: moving, hospitalization of a sibling or parent, altercations in the parent’s relationship, etc. These influence the way in which your child relates to others. Staff members can better provide for a child’s needs if they are aware of the situation. We will treat this information with the utmost confidence.
On the first Monday of each session you will receive important information regarding schedules, field trips, special events, etc. Please read all information carefully and save it for future reference.
Contacting your Child at Camp
Please do not call to speak to your child unless it is an emergency. If your child is experiencing problems, we will call you immediately. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the site director at any time.
Campers are not allowed to have cell phones or any other electronic devices at any of our camp sites.
Parent Communication Log
At each camp, you will find a binder or notebook in which you can leave messages for the Camp Director or Counselor. Please write all messages down in this book including, known absences, vacations, the need to conference, etc.
Parent Participation
Parents are an important part of our camp program. We encourage you to share your talents, hobbies, and/or profession with your child’s group. Please contact the camp office to volunteer your services.
Parents of enrolled children may make unannounced visits at any time. All custodial parents have the right to enter the day camp (center) at any time. We request, however, that visits of a lengthy nature are scheduled with the Director ahead of time in order to avoid having too many people in the room at one time. Visitors other than parents are welcome to visit, but should make an appointment with the Director ahead of time.
We would also like to invite all the parents to attend special events and shows put on by the children each session.
Volunteer Process
Volunteers are always encouraged at the YMCA. Parents wishing to volunteer on the Parent Advisory
Committee, special field trips, and/or classroom activities that are not a parent/child group function
must fill out a volunteer application and a background check form. All paperwork must pass both YMCA
and TDFPS standards before volunteer participation in an activity can begin.
COMMUNICATION
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WHAT TO BRING TO CAMPPlease add your child’s name on everything they bring to camp.
Swim Suit
Water Bottle
with Water
Towel
Life Jacket
Backpack
Nutritious
Lunch
Sunscreen
Close-toed
Shoes
What to leave home: All electronics: including MP3 players, PSPs, iPods, Cell
Phones, Toys and Pets. The YMCA is not responsible for lost or broken items.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Nutritional Lunch In collaboration with several local non profits, and the USDA Summer Food Program, most YMCA Summer Day Camps offer summer meals at no additional cost to parents. Where offered, meals are an option, but not a feature of camp. We make every effort to serve nutritional meals campers will enjoy. If you do not want to participate in the summer food program, please send your child to camp with a sack lunch & drink.
Our camps are a NUT FREE ZONE. We ask that you do not provide lunch or snacks that contain peanuts, peanut butter or other nuts at camp to ensure the safety of all children.
Meals and Food Service Practices Breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack are provided to all children. Meals and snacks meet USDA guidelines and are served in a family style environment. The family style environment helps enhance self-help skills along with social and motor development.
• Breakfast: 8:30 am – 9:00 am• Lunch: 11:30 am – 12:00 Noon• PM Snack: 2:30 PM – 3:00 PMPlease note that no additional meals will be served after the times listed.
Special Meals If your child has an allergy and cannot eat a food item, you must complete and Allergy Action Plan complete
with signatures from both parents their primary care physician. If there is any medication to be given, that
must be kept on-site. Allergy Action Plans are available at camp as well as on our website.
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Medications
Our medication policy is primarily established to accommodate the administration of medications(s) commonly prescribed by physicians for the treatment of short-term illnesses. Prescription and "over-the-counter" medications will not be dispensed without written consent from the child’s parent.
Complete the medication authorization form included in your camp registration packet.
Keep all medication in the original container with the prescription label / direction label attached.
Medication must be labeled with the child’s name, the name of medication, the dosage amount, and the
time or times to be given.
Hand all medication (including inhalers, etc.) to the camp counselor. Campers are not allowed to keepmedications on their person, in their backpacks or lunch bags unless they have doctor and parentpermission to self-carry medication.
All medications will be given to your child at the prescribed time.
Sunscreen Should your camper be required to use sunscreen while participating in the camp day, the following procedures MUST be followed in accordance with YMCA policies.
Keep the sunscreen in the original container, labeled with your camper’s name
Camp staff will remind campers to apply sunscreen multiple times per day.
Camp staff will apply sunscreen to campers under the age of 9 years old. All campers that are olderthan 9 years old will be permitted to apply their own sunscreen.
Bug Spray
Should your camper be required to use bug spray while participating in the camp day, the following procedures will be followed in accordance with YMCA policies
Keep the insect repellent in the original container, labeled with your camper’s name.
Grouping Campers Together
We’ll do our best. Many of our camps are divided into groups by age and / or ability. Please send a note to your child’s Camp Director on Monday morning, and we will make our best effort at keeping your child with his / her friend. Of course, there are circumstances (age and/or ability) in which the YMCA camp staff will be unable to meet your request. Luckily, there is a great deal of time in which the entire camp is together. You child will be able to be with his / her friend during this time. And remember, camp is for making new friends too!
Screen-Free Camp
Camp is a screen free and cell phone free zone. Cell phones, video games, iPods, etc., become disruptive to camp life and detract from the camp experience. If a cell phone, iPod, DSi, etc., comes to camp, it will be collected and placed at the front desk until pick up. Please contact the YMCA if there is an emergency in which you need to contact your child. The YMCA is not responsible for lost electronics.
WHAT TO BRING
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Field Trips
During each week of camp, field trip/program activities are planned to various local attractions or on-site locations. On field trip days, children will be required to be at camp by 8:30 am. The cost of allfield trips/program activities are included in the supply fee. Sack lunches are required to bring on fieldtrip days.
All children are expected to participate in field trips as there is no alternative care available for thosewho wish not to attend.
Field trips are age appropriate and we encourage parents to volunteer. (See volunteer procedures)
All YMCA campers will be provided a YMCA Day Camp t-shirt. Children must wear the current DayCamp shirts on field trip days. If your camper forgets his/her t-shirt on a field trip day, you will berequired to purchase another t-shirt for $10.
You will be notified in advance of any schedule changes. If any changes are made, please realize thatthey are for the benefit of the participants at the discretion of the YMCA, including any unforeseendelays or inclement weather.
A qualified staff person will be in charge of a specific group of children during each field trip. Eachgroup will not exceed the state ratio for field trips. Each staff will have a written list of the children intheir group with them at all times. The Day Camp Director or other licensed director is required to goon all field trips and will ensure all policies and procedures are followed. The Camp Director will beresponsible for bringing the children’s necessary documents on the field trip.
Field Trip Discipline Policy
On site discipline policy will be followed on all field trips. Any child who leaves his/her groups will not be allowed to go on future field trips. Any child who cannot follow field trip guidelines is subject to suspension from all future field trips. If a child’s behavior poses a threat to the safety of themselves or others, that child will lose field trip privileges. If your child is suspended from a field trip because of behavior, you will not receive a refund for that field trip.
Transportation
The YMCA will provide transportation to & from all scheduled field trips utilizing Gold Star Transportation
Parent Volunteers on Field Trips
All parent volunteers must complete a YMCA volunteer form at least 2 weeks prior to the field trip.
Parent volunteers will be placed in a group of children along with YMCA staff members.
Volunteers are not to be left alone with a group of campers.
If a parent attends a field trip and does not assist with a group the YMCA will not pay any field tripfees the parent may incur.
Parents may ride the bus with campers as long as there is room.
If you are interested in volunteering for a field trip, please contact your Camp Director.
FIELD TRIPS
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Swimming
Please send your child to camp with a swimsuit and towel EVERYDAY, along with a plastic bag for their wet suits. Although you will be provided with a schedule that indicates your camper’s swim schedule, sending your camper with his / her swim gear each day will allow them to participate in any activities in case of a schedule change.
Swim Test
Children will be swim tested at the beginning of each session and grouped accordingly. The swim test will consist of swimming one length of the pool using a recognizable stroke and treading water for one minute. The procedure is required to ensure to safety in the pool. Successful completion of this
test will allow the children to swim in the deep end of the pool during camp time. Those campers that do not pass the required swim test will be restricted to designated areas of the pool. No exceptions! All campers will be marked as swimmers (with a green wristband) or non-swimmers (with a red wristband) at the completion of the swim test.
Water Safety Rules
1. Swimming safety is based on common sense. Keep rules in mind at all times.2. Stay in assigned section of the pool.3. No roughhousing in the water.4. Do not dunk other swimmers.5. Do not hold anyone under water.6. Do not accept dares.7. Always walk. No running in the pool areas.8. Get dressed quickly. Changing rooms are not play areas. Show courtesy to others in changing rooms.9. No diving or jumping from the sides of the pool.
Emergency or Inclement Weather during camp day
Each YMCA camp location has a disaster/emergency plan. In the event of a disaster/emergency the YMCA Program Administrators will update branch welcome centers in order to help parents trying to locate campers. We ask that parents wait to be notified before trying to call camps, as the staff need to focus on the safety of the children and any weather emergency.
If water or electricity remains off at our camp location for more than 20 minutes and there is no estimate on when it will be restored, we will contact each parent to pick up their children as soon as possible. In the case that out location is compromised significantly and deemed dangerous, we may transport campers to an alternate location until it is evaluated as safe to return.
During heat advisory days we will take extra precaution to keep children in shaded areas and well hydrated. When possible, indoor spaces will be utilized. Activities will be modified to give campers plenty of rest time in extreme heat. Due to the outdoor nature and extreme Texas heat, please be aware that your child is at risk of getting sunburned even if sunscreen is applied a number of times during the day.
*It is imperative to keep emergency contact information current so we can reach you in an emergency.
SWIM TEST
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Our Day Camp programs strive to meet the needs of all children without ignoring the demands of any one individual within the boundaries of set guidelines and rules. The YMCA School Age Child Development programs have established rules, consequences and a zero tolerance policy on specific behaviors. The YMCA reserves the right to suspend or expel a child from the program at any time based on the severity of the actions of the child.
YMCA Rules
Keep hands, feet, body and objects to yourself.
Show respect to staff, others and self.
Speak for yourself, not others.
Do not willfully destroy YMCA property.
Do not go anywhere without a YMCA staff person.
Always clean up after activities.
Have fun.
YMCA Consequences*
Verbal warning.
Re-direction to another activity.
Time away without activities.
Parent notification at pick up time.
Meeting with parent and behavior contract created.
Notice of Suspension (1 Day), next day of care/without refund.
Notice of suspension (3 Days), next 3 days of care/without refund.
Conference with Program Director/Parent/Camper.
Removal from program.
*Due to the seriousness of the behavior any step can be taken at any time.
Zero Tolerance
Inflicting physical harm on another individual.
Verbal threats that may cause physical harm to another individual.
Verbal threats that may destroy property.
Possession of a weapon, controlled substance or alcohol.
Use of foul language.
Inappropriate touching of another individual.
Camper does not stay within the boundaries of the camp (runs out of the program).
The YMCA reserves the right to suspend or expel a child immediately for violation of the Zero Tolerance guideline without refund.
CODE OF CONDUCT
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Adult Code of Conduct
The following guidelines have been created to meet the standards, policies and procedures of the YMCA, minimum standards for child care centers and the Texas Family Code. All YMCA staff and volunteers are knowledgeable of these standards, policies and procedures.
Communicate with the Day Camp director or staff daily.
Give detailed information to the Program Director if custody situations arise.
People whose behavior and/or health status pose an immediate threat or danger to the health and
safety of the camper must not be present when campers are in care.
- Do not confront any camper in a threatening manner.
- Do not confront campers from other families.
- Using profanity in the presence of a child is prohibited and against the law.
- Report concerns to the Day Camp Director.
- In the event of threatening behavior towards a YMCA staff member or child, 911 will be called.
Consumption and/or possession of alcohol in any form are strictly prohibited by the YMCA.
Controlled substances/medications must be accompanied by a written doctor’s prescription when
used during Day Camp, during transportation, or on field trips. People must not be under the
influence of or impaired by alcohol or controlled substances in the presence of day campers and
staff.
Day Camp program, during transportation on field trips:
- Children will not be released to parents, guardians, or other authorized adults if the YMCA staff
feels as though the individual is consuming, under the influence of or impaired by alcohol or a
controlled substance.
People must not smoke, use tobacco products, E Cigs, or Vape Pens at the YMCA, on the premises,
on the playground, in transportation vehicles or during field trips.
Consequences of Parent Misbehavior
In regards to the “Adult Code of Conduct” listed above, any parent misbehavior will result in the Day Camp Director’s decision ranging from a verbal warning to the maximum penalty being parent’s removal from the building or the camper’s removal from our program.
ADULT CODE OF CONDUCT
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get a camp schedule?
Camp schedules will be passed out to campers on the first day of the session. The camp schedule provides you with information on what your child will be doing during his/her time at camp. Please note that these schedules are subject to change. We do our best to provide you with information early so you can plan ahead, but summer camp is full of surprises, and we are often forced to make changes. This schedule also gives you information on what to bring.
What should my camper bring to camp?
All campers must bring a healthy, peanut-free lunch, plenty to drink and two snacks to camp daily. Please send only non-perishable foods because refrigeration is not possible. Campers should also bring their own water bottle to stay hydrated during the day. Send your child to camp with a backpack to keep all of their belongings together. Please have your camper bring a swimsuit, towel, insect repellent, a hat for sun protection, and sunscreen to help prevent sunburn. It is recommended that parents or guardians apply sunscreen to campers’ arms, legs and back prior to arriving at camp.
What to bring for field trips?
Please label all items with name and phone number. Campers must bring a healthy, nut-free lunch, 2 snacks and plenty to drink each day. Campers should not need, nor should bring large sums of money. Trips are subject to change, so campers should bring a backpack with swimsuit, towel and sunscreen each day, regardless of the schedule. All campers should wear comfortable and appropriate attire, such as T-shirt, shorts and tennis shoes. Please do not wear sandals or flip flops.
What should my campers wear to camp?
Children should wear clothing suitable for an active day at camp. Appropriate items would include shorts, t-shirts, light jackets (for chilly mornings), and athletic shoes (no sandals). Please label all items sent tocamp with the child’s first and last name. Our camps use discovery and play as a major part of our campprogram, thus we encourage you to dress your child in clothing that you do not mind getting dirty orstained with art materials in the course of your child engaging in a fun activity.
What shouldn’t my child wear?
Baggy pants, short shorts, halter, spaghetti strap tops are not permitted.
Can my camper buy lunch?
No. Campers are not to bring any money to camp. Campers will have no access to vending machines. The only exception is on designated Pizza Fridays, when campers can pay for a pizza lunch at sign-in.
What if my camper forgets his/her lunch?
Every so often, a lunch doesn’t make it from the car to camp. The camp staff will contact you to let you know that they don’t have a lunch. We will make sure that your child gets something to eat or a lunch will be purchased and parents will need to reimburse camp at pick-up.
Does the camp program provide a snack?
Yes. We provide an AM and PM snack.
FAQ’S
21
…..CONTINUED: Frequently Asked Questions
What shouldn’t my campers bring to camp?
Cell phones
Video games
Personal CD players / stereos / iPods
Expensive jewelry / watches
New or expensive clothes
Money
Toys and card games
Weapons
Alcohol and drugs
Personal sports equipment (unless otherwise specified)
Vehicles
Animals
The YMCA is not responsible for any items that are lost or stolen, and under NO CIRCUMSTANCES willreimburse or lost, stolen or broken items.
Should my campers bring money to camp?
No. Camp fees include all day trip admission fees.
What if my camper loses something at camp?
We know that sometimes things just get lost. Please label all of your child’s belongings. The best way to prevent the loss of property is to leave it at home! There will be a designated Lost and Found at each camp location. Please check for your child’s items. Lost and found items are kept at the YMCA for two full weeks and then donated to charity. The YMCA is not responsible for camper possessions that are lost or stolen.
Should I pack water for my child?
Yes. Though we fill coolers for the kids and our staff make regular trips to the restrooms and drinking fountains, parents are ultimately responsible for sending their child with plenty of fluids for the day.
What if my camper can’t swim?
Parents of non-swimmers should indicate their child’s swimming ability on the registration form. Non swimmers will be marked and required to remain in the shallow end of the pool. Campers are not required to swim, although encouraged to do so. The YMCA offers both group and private swim lessons daily throughout the summer as a separate program for ages 6 months – Adult.
How often do campers take the swim test?
In order to keep your child safe, campers wanting to swim in the deep end take the swim test daily before swimming.
FAQ’S CONTINUED
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Day Camp Questions & Concerns
Questions or concerns about the policies and procedures of the Day Camp program can be directed to any of the professional YMCA Day Camp staff. All questions will be answered in a timely manner. For questions or concerns of the day to day operation of the Day Camp Program, you may contact the Program Director:
Mechell Green
Program Director
817-332-4434
JaNysha Childers
Day Camp Director
817-332-3281
Ron Johnson
Teen Camp Director
817-332-3281
Thank you for choosing the YMCA!
We are looking forward to the BEST SUMMER EVER!
ANY QUESTIONS?